Cerebrovascular Diseases Diagnosis & Treatment

Cerebrovascular diseases are the third leading cause of death in the United States. Recognizing early symptoms of cerebrovascular disease in a timely fashion is critical in the prevention of death and disability from cerebrovascular causes. A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is a warning of a stroke. Symptoms resolve in less than 24 hours but the risk of subsequent stroke within 90 days is high. Patients with TIAs need to be identified for risk factors for stroke prevention. A “stroke” is a sudden onset or loss of neurological function resulting from focal disturbance of cerebral blood flow due to either ischemia or hemorrhage. Acute stroke-like symptoms (less than 3 hours of duration) are a medical emergency requiring emergency care – CALL 911! Intravenous Thrombolysis is given to eligible patients in an emergency room setting.
Once an ischemic stroke is diagnosed by a stroke specialist, the etiology needs to be ascertained. Several mechanisms include systemic hypoperfusion (i.e. cardiac arrhythmias, massive myocardial infarctions, shock), thrombosis, (atherosclerotic plaque rupture, embolism) hypercoagulable states such as deficiencies of protein C, S or antithrobin 3, Factor V mutation, AntiPhospholipid Antibody Syndrome and sickle cell anemia are also causes of ischemic stroke.

Stroke victims require a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. We work closely with internists, family practice physicians and physiatrists to help stroke victims maintain a good quality life. Stroke victims may require speech and swallow evaluations, management of spasticity, mobilization and rehabilitation as well as prevention of infections and other peripheral thromboses.

Risk factor management is essential for secondary stroke prevention. This involves controlling hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and hyperglycemia. Medications of spasticity, mobilization and rehabilitation as well as prevention of infections and other peripheral thromboses.

Here at Northern Neurology Specialties, we strive to provide our patients with the most advanced, medical management for stroke and/or cerebral vascular disease and combine this with referrals for various rehabilitation therapies and counseling. A number of specialists, disciplines as well as your primary care physician will be key to your recovery and maintaining your health.

This is a brief overview of stroke/cerebrovascular disease and is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice. Speak to your doctor or stroke treatment specialist about your concerns regarding stroke/cerebrovascular disease.